A Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Greenville

CRANSTON, R.I. – The state of Rhode Island and FEMA have opened a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in Greenville in Providence County to help Rhode Island residents affected by the severe storms and flooding that took place from December 17-19, 2023, and January 9-13, 2024. At the center, survivors will be able to apply for FEMA assistance, upload documents and get answers to questions in person. 

Other sites may be opening soon.

The DRC is located at the following address:

William Windsor Elementary School
562 Putnam Pike
Greenville, RI 02828 

Hours of operation for all centers are: 8 a.m.– 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturdays. Closed Sundays.

Survivors can visit any open center; they don’t have to visit their local center.

The other current sites are:

• Coventry Town Hall Annex
  1675 Flat River Road
  Coventry, RI 02816
• Curtis Corner Middle School
  301 Curtis Corner Road
  Wakefield, RI  02879

Representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration will also be at the center to explain how to apply for SBA’s low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters, businesses, and private nonprofits.

All centers are accessible to people with disabilities and access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology equipment. If you need a reasonable accommodation or sign language interpreter, please let a FEMA specialist at the center know. 

We anticipate additional centers opening in the affected areas soon. To find a DRC that is convenient for you, you can go to DRC Locator (fema.gov)

Residents don’t need to visit a DRC to apply for FEMA assistance. Survivors can register with FEMA in one of the following ways: 

• Call 1-800-621-3362. Phone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. seven days a week. Help is available in most languages. If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service.
• Download the FEMA Mobile App. (also in Spanish), available at Google Play or the Apple App Store
• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov (also in Spanish). 

For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to, youtube.com/watch?v= WZGpWI2RCNw.

For the latest information visit 4765 | FEMA.gov or 4766 | FEMA.gov. Follow FEMA on X, formerly known as Twitter, at twitter.com/femaregion1 and at facebook.com/fema.

For updates on the Rhode Island response and recovery, follow the Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency on Twitter at  twitter.com/RhodeIslandEMA, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RhodeIslandEMA, or visit www.riema.ri.gov.  

barbara.murien… Thu, 04/04/2024 - 15:09

Understanding Your FEMA Letter

Survivors who applied for assistance from FEMA for the January 9-13, 2024, severe storms and flooding, will receive a determination letter from FEMA explaining the status of their application. If the applicant is found eligible for assistance, the letter will explain the amount of assistance FEMA approved and information on the appropriate use of disaster assistance funds.   

If the applicant is found ineligible, please read the letter carefully and entirely as it will explain the reasons for the ineligibility and what may be needed to submit with an appeal letter for reconsideration. In some circumstances, the survivor may only need to submit additional information or supporting documentation for FEMA to continue processing the application.

Examples of missing documentation may include:

• Proof of insurance coverage
• Settlement of insurance claims or denial letter from insurance provider
• Proof of identity
• Proof of occupancy 
• Proof of ownership
• Proof that the damaged property was the applicant’s primary residence at the time of the disaster.

Questions about your letter can be answered by calling the disaster assistance helpline at 800-621-3362. You may also visit your nearest Disaster Recovery Center (DRC). For information on open DRCs, and DRC hours you can visit our DRC Locator page at: fema.gov/drc. Search by state and select Maine.

Appealing FEMA’s Decision

Survivors may submit an appeal letter and documents supporting their claim, such as a contractor’s estimate for home repairs, or missing documents as described in the determination letter for additional consideration.

FEMA cannot duplicate assistance provided by another source, such as insurance settlements. Survivors who are underinsured may receive additional assistance for unmet needs after insurance claims have been settled.

The appeal must be in writing. In a signed and dated letter, explain the reason(s) for the appeal. It should include: 

• Applicant’s full name 
• Disaster number (DR-4764 for the severe storm and flooding from Jan. 9-13, 2024.)
• Address of the pre-disaster primary residence 
• Applicant’s current phone number and address 
• The FEMA application number on all documents

If you choose to have a third party submit an appeal letter on your behalf, the appeal letter must be signed by the third party. Additionally, please include a statement signed by you authorizing the third party to appeal on your behalf.  

Appeal letters must be postmarked within 60 days of the date of the determination letter. Letters and supporting documents may be submitted to FEMA by fax, mail or via a FEMA online account. To set up an online account, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, click on “Apply Online” and follow the directions. 

By mail: FEMA National Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville MD 20782-7055

By fax: 800-827-8112 Attention: FEMA 

You may also visit your nearest Disaster Recovery Center to submit your appeal. 

For an accessible video on the FEMA eligibility letter, visit FEMA Accessible: Understanding Your Letter - YouTube.

kwei.nwaogu Thu, 04/04/2024 - 13:30

Federal Support for Spokane County Wildfire Survivors Surpasses $2.6 Million

Spokane, Wash. – When the Gray and Oregon Road wildfires struck Spokane County in August, entire neighborhoods were evacuated, thousands of acres of rural farmland and forests were scorched, and 360 structures destroyed. 

President Biden signed a Federal Disaster Declaration, and the delivery of recovery resources is now well underway  for Spokane County residents affected by the wildfires.

FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration have approved more than $2.6 million in federal assistance for eligible homeowners, renters and businesses, both insured and underinsured. That number includes:

• $2.2 million in FEMA housing and other assistance
• $485,500 in home and business loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration, the largest source of federal disaster recovery funds for homeowners, renters, businesses and certain nonprofits.

As of April 1, 115 households have been approved for FEMA grant funding including:

• More than $1.7 million in housing grants, including short-term rental assistance and home-repair costs
• More than $443,700 for other essential disaster-related needs, such as expenses related to medical, dental  and lost personal possessions.

More than 200 home inspections have been completed to assess property damage. Two Disaster Recovery Centers, located in the communities of Medical Lake and Elk, have logged more than 583 survivor visits. At the centers, residents may speak in person to representatives from federal and state programs and local organizations. 

In partnership with the State of Washington, Spokane County, and local officials, FEMA will continue helping individuals and families get back on their feet and into secure housing until the job is done.

The deadlines to apply with FEMA and SBA are both April 20, 2024.

• To  apply for FEMA assistance, visit disasterassistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app, or by call 800-621-3362. 
• To apply for a disaster loan from SBA, visit SBA’s disaster website: sba.gov/disaster, contact SBA by email at disastercustomerservice@sba,gov or call 800-659-2955 for information.

###

FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.

mary.j.edmon Thu, 04/04/2024 - 00:25

One Disaster Recovery Center Set to Open April 4; Two Others to Close April 6

LANSING, Mich. – A Disaster Recovery Center is scheduled to open at 1 p.m., Thursday, April 4, for one day only in 

Wayne (Detroit) County. This center will help residents in Eaton, Ingham, Ionia, Kent, Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, 

Oakland and Wayne counties continue their recovery after the Aug. 24-26, 2023, severe storms, tornadoes and 

flooding.

Two recovery centers, in Ingham and Wayne (Detroit) counties, will close permanently at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, April 6.

The deadline to apply for assistance is Wednesday, May 8, 2024.

Regular operating hours for recovery centers are 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday to Saturday, except for the Wayne County (South East) center in Taylor, which closes at 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday. All centers are closed Sundays. 

A recovery center will be open from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m., April 4, only, at this location:

Wayne (Detroit) County:

Wayne County Community College – Northwest Campus

Larry K. Lewis Education Center – Media Lab 116

8200 Outer Drive West

Detroit, MI 48219

Two recovery centers, in Ingham and Wayne (Detroit) counties, will close permanently Saturday, April 6, at these locations:

Ingham County

Northeast Ingham Emergency Services Authority

1296 W. Grand River Ave.

Williamston, MI 48895

Wayne (Detroit) County:  

Samaritan Center

5555 Connor St. 

Detroit, MI 48123

This center was closed Wednesday, April 3; reopened at 1 p.m., Thursday, April 4. 

To find locations of all open recovery centers, visit FEMA.gov/DRC. You may visit any center for assistance.

You don’t need to visit a recovery center to apply for FEMA assistance or to check on the status of your application. The easiest way to reach FEMA is to call the toll-free Helpline at 800-621-3362. Specialists are available 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. to help you apply, answer your questions and provide referrals to resources. Language translation is available. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply. You also may go online to DisasterAssistance.gov or download the FEMA App.

For more information about the disaster recovery operation in Michigan, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4757.

kirsten.chambers Wed, 04/03/2024 - 19:46

FEMA Assistance for Primary Homes Only

Mainers affected by the storms and flooding that took place from January 9-13 may be eligible for grants to repair or rebuild their primary residence. Your primary residence is where you live more than six months of the year. Second homes, vacation homes or homes used as vacation rentals (such as through Airbnb or VRBO) do not qualify for assistance. 

Those who are unable to live in their primary residence because of disaster damage may be eligible for temporary housing assistance. Other assistance may include repair or replacement of disaster-damaged personal property and vehicles or funds for moving and storage, medical, dental, childcare or other necessary expenses incurred as a result of the disaster. 

Low-interest long-term disaster loans through the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) may be available to help rebuild or repair your second home, vacation home or home used as short-term rental property.  The SBA is the largest source of federal disaster recovery funds for survivors and provides disaster loans up to $500,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate.

Residents with damage in the following federal designated counties are eligible to apply for FEMA and SBA assistance: Cumberland, Hancock, Lincoln, Knox, Sagadahoc, Waldo, Washington and York

Survivors may apply online for a low-interest disaster loan at SBA.gov/disaster. Call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance.

Apply to FEMA in one of the following ways: 

• Call1-800-621-3362. Phone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. seven days a week, with language translation services available. If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service.
• Download the FEMA Mobile App (also in Spanish), available at Google Play or the Apple App Store
• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov (also in Spanish). 

To view an accessible video on how to apply, visit Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube

kwei.nwaogu Wed, 04/03/2024 - 18:48

Disaster Recovery Center Opens in York County

The State of Maine and FEMA have opened a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in York County. The DRC is a temporary facility established to help survivors recover from the severe storms and flooding from January 9-13. The location of the DRC is:

Wells Fire Station #2
585 N Berwick Rd
Wells, ME 04090

Hours of operation are seven days a week 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. with the exception of this Sunday, March 31st when all DRCs will be closed in observation of Easter Sunday.

DRCs provide disaster survivors with information from Maine state agencies, FEMA, and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Survivors can get help applying for federal assistance and disaster loans, update applications and learn about other resources available.

DRCs are accessible to people with disabilities. They have assistive technology equipment that allows disaster survivors to interact with staff. Video Remote Interpreting is available. The centers also have accessible parking, ramps and restrooms.

It is not necessary to visit a Disaster Recovery Center to apply. Survivors can go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call 800-621-3362. The line is open every day from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. ET. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service. To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.

kwei.nwaogu Wed, 04/03/2024 - 18:43

How to Apply for FEMA Assistance After the January 9-13, 2024, Severe Storms and Flooding

On March 20, President Biden approved the disaster declaration for the severe storms and flooding that occurred on January 9-13, 2024.

Maine homeowners and renters in Cumberland, Hancock, Knox, Lincoln, Sagadahoc, Waldo, Washington or York counties who were affected by the January severe storms and flooding, may apply for FEMA disaster assistance.

There are several ways to apply:

• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Help is available in most languages. The Helpline is available daily from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. ET.
• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov (also in Spanish).
• Download the FEMA mobile app (also in Spanish), available at Google Play or the Apple App Store.

When you apply for assistance, have the following information ready:

• A current phone number where you can be contacted
• Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying
• Your Social Security number
• A general list of damage and losses
• Banking information if you choose direct deposit
• If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name

If you have a homeowner’s or flood insurance policy, file your insurance claim immediately, before applying for federal assistance. The faster you file, the faster your recovery can begin. FEMA is unable to duplicate insurance payments. However, those without insurance, or those who may be underinsured, may still receive help after their insurance claims have been settled.

Disaster assistance may provide temporary help and a place to stay while you build your recovery plan. Although the federal government cannot make you whole, it may be able to help your recovery move forward by providing grants for basic repairs to make your home safe, accessible and secure.

kwei.nwaogu Wed, 04/03/2024 - 18:35

Disaster Assistance Teams Meeting Survivors Where They Are

Sometimes, after a disaster, applying for FEMA assistance can be a challenge. Disaster Recovery Centers are not always convenient, bad internet connection prevents using DisasterAssistance.gov, or there are long holds on the FEMA Helpline.

To ensure survivors can apply for assistance, FEMA sends teams of Disaster Survivor Assistants into many neighborhoods affected by a disaster, often going door-to-door to assist survivors.

These teams will be easily recognizable by their official photo identification. If you meet people offering assistance, first ask to see their ID before giving any personal information. They may have FEMA clothing, but that can be easily faked. 

They are there helping you and your neighbors apply for assistance and providing other information to get your recovery started. Representatives are also available for Town Hall meetings and Community Events upon request.

There are several ways to apply:

• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Help is available in most languages. The Helpline is available daily from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. ET.
• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov (also in Spanish).
• Download the FEMA mobile app (also in Spanish), available at Google Play or the Apple App Store.

Disaster assistance may provide temporary help and a place to stay while you build your recovery plan. Although the federal government cannot make you whole, it may be able to help your recovery move forward by providing grants for basic repairs to make your home safe, accessible and secure.

kwei.nwaogu Wed, 04/03/2024 - 18:24

Understanding Your FEMA Letter

CRANSTON, R.I. – Survivors who applied for assistance from FEMA for the December 17-19, 2023, or January 9-13, 2024, flooding and severe storms, will receive a determination letter from FEMA explaining the status of their application. If the applicant is found eligible for assistance, the letter will explain the amount of assistance FEMA approved and information on the appropriate use of disaster assistance funds.  

If the applicant is found ineligible, please read the letter carefully and entirely as it will explain the reasons for the ineligibility and what may be needed to submit with an appeal letter for reconsideration. In some circumstances, the survivor may only need to submit additional information or supporting documentation for FEMA to continue processing the application. 

Examples of missing documentation may include:

• Proof of insurance coverage
• Settlement of insurance claims or denial letter from insurance provider
• Proof of identity
• Proof of occupancy
• Proof of ownership
• Proof that the damaged property was the applicant’s primary residence at the time of the disaster.

Questions about your letter can be answered by calling the disaster assistance helpline at 800-621-3362. You may also visit your nearest Disaster Recovery Center (DRC). For information on open DRCs, and DRC hours you can visit our DRC Locator page at: fema.gov/drc. Search by state and select Rhode Island.

Appealing FEMA’s Decision

Survivors may submit an appeal letter and documents supporting their claim, such as a contractor’s estimate for home repairs, or missing documents as described in the determination letter for additional consideration.

FEMA cannot duplicate assistance provided by another source, such as insurance settlements. Survivors who are underinsured may receive additional assistance for unmet needs after insurance claims have been settled.

The appeal must be in writing. In a signed and dated letter, explain the reason(s) for the appeal. It should include: 

• Applicant’s full name 
• Disaster number (DR-4765 for the severe storm and flooding from Dec. 17-19. 2023 or DR-4765 for the severe storm and flooding from Jan. 9-13, 2024.)
• Address of the pre-disaster primary residence 
• Applicant’s current phone number and address 
• The FEMA application number on all documents

If you choose to have a third party submit an appeal letter on your behalf, the appeal letter must be signed by the third party. Additionally, please include a statement signed by you authorizing the third party to appeal on your behalf.  

Appeal letters must be postmarked within 60 days of the date of the determination letter. Letters and supporting documents may be submitted to FEMA by fax, mail or via a FEMA online account. To set up an online account, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, click on “Apply Online” and follow the directions. 

By mail: FEMA National Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville MD 20782-7055

By fax: 800-827-8112 Attention: FEMA 

You may also visit your nearest Disaster Recovery Center to submit your appeal. 

For an accessible video on the FEMA eligibility letter, visit FEMA Accessible: Understanding Your Letter - YouTube.

For the latest information visit 4765 | FEMA.gov.  and 4766 | FEMA.gov. Follow the FEMA Region 1 account at Twitter twitter.com/FEMARegion1 or the Facebook page at facebook.com/FEMA.

For updates on the Rhode Island response and recovery, follow the Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency on Twitter at twitter.com/RhodeIslandEMA, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RhodeIslandEMA, or visit www.riema.ri.gov. 

barbara.murien… Wed, 04/03/2024 - 18:19

A Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Coventry

CRANSTON, R.I. – The state of Rhode Island and FEMA have opened a Disaster Recovery Center in Coventry in Kent County to help Rhode Island residents affected by the severe storms and flooding that took place from December 17-19, 2023, and January 9-13, 2024. At the center, survivors will be able to apply for FEMA assistance, upload documents and get answers to questions in person. 

We anticipate additional centers opening in the affected areas soon.

Representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration will also be at the center to explain how to apply for SBA’s low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters, businesses, and private nonprofits.

The center is located at:

Coventry Town Hall Annex
1675 Flat River Road
Coventry, RI 02816

Hours of operation for all centers are: 8 a.m.– 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturdays. Closed Sundays.

Survivors can visit any open center; they don’t have to visit their local center.

The other current site is located at:

Curtis Corner Middle School
301 Curtis Corner Road
Wakefield, RI  02879

All centers are accessible to people with disabilities and access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology equipment. If you need a reasonable accommodation or sign language interpreter, please let a FEMA specialist at the center know. 

Residents don’t need to visit a DRC to apply for FEMA assistance. To apply without visiting a center, register with FEMA in one of the following ways: 

• Call 1-800-621-3362. Phone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. seven days a week. Help is available in most languages. If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service.
• Download the FEMA Mobile App. (also in Spanish), available at Google Play or the Apple App Store
• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov (also in Spanish). 

For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to, youtube.com/watch?v= WZGpWI2RCNw.

For the latest information visit 4765 | FEMA.gov or 4766 | FEMA.gov. Follow FEMA on X, formerly known as Twitter, at twitter.com/femaregion1 and at facebook.com/fema.

For updates on the Rhode Island response and recovery, follow the Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency on Twitter at  twitter.com/RhodeIslandEMA, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RhodeIslandEMA, or visit www.riema.ri.gov.  

barbara.murien… Wed, 04/03/2024 - 17:58

A Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Wakefield

CRANSTON, R.I. – The state of Rhode Island and FEMA have opened a Disaster Recovery Center in Wakefield in Washington County to help Rhode Island residents affected by the severe storms and flooding that took place from December 17-19, 2023, and January 9-13, 2024. At the center, survivors will be able to apply for FEMA assistance, upload documents and get answers to questions in person. 

We anticipate additional centers opening in the affected areas soon.

Representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration will also be at the center to explain how to apply for SBA’s low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters, businesses, and private nonprofits.

The center is located at:

Curtis Corner Middle School

301 Curtis Corner Road

Wakefield, RI  02879

Hours of operation: 8 a.m.– 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturdays. Closed Sundays.

All centers are accessible to people with disabilities and access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology equipment. If you need a reasonable accommodation or sign language interpreter, please let a FEMA specialist at the center know. 

Residents don’t need to visit a DRC to apply for FEMA assistance. To apply without visiting a center, register with FEMA in one of the following ways: 

• Call 1-800-621-3362. Phone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. seven days a week. Help is available in most languages. If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service.
• Download the FEMA Mobile App. (also in Spanish), available at Google Play or the Apple App Store
• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov (also in Spanish). 

For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to, youtube.com/watch?v= WZGpWI2RCNw.

For the latest information visit 4765 | FEMA.gov or 4766 | FEMA.gov. Follow FEMA on X, formerly known as Twitter, at twitter.com/femaregion1 and at facebook.com/fema.

For updates on Rhode Island’s response and recovery operations, follow the Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency on Twitter (X) twitter.com/RhodeIslandEMA and Facebook facebook.com/RhodeIslandEMA.  

barbara.murien… Wed, 04/03/2024 - 17:49

COFA Wildfire Survivors May Now Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance

HONOLULU – Citizens of the Freely Associated States, collectively known as COFA citizens, may now apply for FEMA disaster assistance for losses caused by the Aug. 8 wildfires and high winds on Maui.

President Biden recently signed the Compact of Free Association Amendments Act of 2024, which extended federal benefits to COFA citizens who legally reside in the United States. Among them are citizens of the Republic of Palau, the Federated States of Micronesia, and the Republic of the Marshall Islands. 

The change in the law allows COFA citizens who were previously ineligible for FEMA disaster assistance due to their COFA status to now apply for FEMA’s Individuals and Households program.

The 60-day application period began Monday, April 1, and ends Friday, May 31. To apply, eligible COFA citizens must show that their primary residence on Maui was affected by the wildfires.

FEMA assistance may address a range of serious needs, including funeral expenses, temporary housing, replacement of essential personal property, and disaster-related medical, dental, transportation, moving-and-storage and childcare expenses. 

The program covers uninsured or underinsured losses. However, FEMA cannot provide financial assistance when any other source has provided assistance or funding for the same disaster-related need. For example, FEMA cannot provide assistance if insurance, voluntary agencies, or nonprofits covered the same need.

To apply, COFA citizens may call 808-784-1952 or visit the Lahaina Disaster Recovery Center in the Civic Center Gymnasium at 1840 Honoapi‘ilani Highway. Phone lines and recovery center hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. HST Monday to Friday; 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. HST Saturday; closed Sundays.

To demonstrate their COFA status, COFA citizens may show either a valid, unexpired Micronesia, Marshall Islands or Palauan passport, a Micronesia Social Security card, a birth certificate, an admission stamp in their passports or an I-94 form issued by U.S. Customs and Border Patrol. 

For more information on documents needed to apply for FEMA assistance, visit Resources for Citizens of Micronesia and the Marshall Islands. Palau citizens can also refer to Fact Sheet: Status of Citizens of the Republic of Palau (uscis.gov).

At the Lahaina Disaster Recovery Center, interpreters are available to help applicants in their preferred languages, including Marshallese, Chuukese, Kosraean, Palauan, Carolinian, Chamorro and American Sign Language. 

FEMA’s Disaster Survivor Assistance specialists on Maui are also available to help COFA citizens apply for FEMA assistance.

For the latest information on the Maui wildfire recovery efforts, visit mauicounty.gov, mauirecovers.org, fema.gov/disaster/4724 and Hawaii Wildfires - YouTube. Follow FEMA on social media: @FEMARegion9 and facebook.com/fema. You may also get disaster assistance information and download applications at sba.gov/hawaii-wildfires. 

nicole.timonshipman Tue, 04/02/2024 - 00:28

Michiganders: Every Disaster Requires a Separate Application for Assistance

LANSING, Mich. – If you were affected by the Aug. 24-26, 2023 severe storms, tornadoes and flooding, and you applied for or received FEMA assistance for a previous disaster, you need to submit a new application for assistance.

By law, FEMA can only pay for damage caused by a federally declared disaster. Every disaster is different and requires a separate application for assistance. This helps make sure the right assistance flows quickly to those who need it.

It’s easy to apply one of four ways:

• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov. 
• Use the FEMA mobile app. 
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. The Helpline is open 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily. Multilingual operators are available. If you use a video relay service, captioned telephone service or other accessibility service, give FEMA your number for that service when you call.
• Visit any Disaster Recovery Center. For locations and hours, visit fema.gov/drc.

The deadline to apply is Wednesday, May 8, 2024. The deadline was recently extended to give all survivors more time to apply. 

For more information about the disaster recovery operation in Michigan, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4757. 

kirsten.chambers Mon, 04/01/2024 - 19:23

FEMA Commemorates 45 Years of Emergency Management

WASHINGTON -- This week, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell commemorates FEMA’s 45th year of helping people before, during and after disasters. As we observe this anniversary, we honor the dedication of our workforce and continue our commitment to shaping an agency ready to meet our country’s needs in an ever-evolving disaster landscape. 

“For 45 years, FEMA employees have served on the front lines to help people in their greatest time of need,” said Administrator Criswell. “Our employees are the heartbeat of our agency. Together, we’re building a more resilient nation by mitigating disasters and improving how we help people on their worst day.  As our agency continues to grow and adapt to the needs of our country, I also challenge my team to keep leaning forward, improving our existing programs, harnessing new technology, and positioning ourselves for the increasing frequency and severity of disasters. I am proud of our agency’s service to our nation, for our role is more important now than ever before.” 

FEMA was established by President Jimmy Carter through an executive order signed on April 1, 1979. He charged the agency with the dual mission of civil defense and disaster response and recovery. His dedication and legacy of public service continues to guide our workforce. 

Over the last 45 years our all-hazards agency has responded thousands of disasters. Through billions of dollars in grants and trainings, we’ve also worked diligently to prepare our nation for disasters and mitigate their effects. 

Though our agency continues to evolve and adapt, we remain as committed to serving people facing disasters as we were when President Carter founded our agency 45 years ago.

amy.ashbridge Mon, 04/01/2024 - 16:44

FEMA Celebrates 45th Anniversary with Commitment to Community and Service

ST. CROIX, U.S. Virgin Islands -- FEMA is proud to announce its 45th anniversary, marking over four decades of dedicated service to communities across the United States, including the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Since its inception, April 1, 1979, FEMA has been steadfast in its mission to support and assist communities in times of need. As part of this commitment, FEMA staff are not only employees but also residents of the communities they serve. Their deep-rooted connection to the community drives their passion and dedication to providing assistance and support to their fellow community members.

"In celebrating our 45th anniversary, we reflect on the journey that has brought us here and reaffirm our commitment to serving the people of the U.S. Virgin Islands," said Kristen Hodge, Director, FEMA USVI Recovery Office. "Our members live and breathe the spirit of service, and we are honored to be part of these communities."

To mark this milestone, FEMA is highlighting some of its significant accomplishments in the Virgin Islands since hurricanes Irma and Maria. These include:

• Infrastructure Hardening: In collaborating with territorial organizations, FEMA has worked tirelessly with its partners in the territory on hurricane recovery projects that will repair and rebuild critical infrastructure, ensuring the resilience of the U.S. Virgin Islands against future disasters. Several hazard mitigation projects that FEMA has funded include the development of microgrids on each island, stormwater management and roadway projects, as well as restoration of the Walter I.M. Hodge Pavilion.
  • The goal of the microgrids set to power St. Thomas and St. Croix are to provide a reliable and resilient energy solution for both islands. Engineered to seamlessly integrate with the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority grid, they'll feature solar photovoltaic plants and battery energy storage systems (BESS) in St. Croix, alongside a proposed wind farm in St. Thomas. These grids are pivotal in ushering in renewable energy initiatives, fortifying the existing electricity infrastructure for a sustainable, greener future. Additionally, the St. John microgrid initiative will introduce a dependable solar-powered backup, enhancing resilience where it was previously lacking.
  • Several road improvement projects in the territory have received funding to make them better at handling stormwater. The goal is to stop flooding on the roads and nearby land. This will make the roads stronger and last longer, reducing damage from bad weather and regular wear and tear. Some ways they'll do this include adding swales (channels for water), making culverts bigger to avoid flooding, and adding structures to prevent hills from collapsing. 
  • The Walter I.M. Hodge Pavilion, managed by the Virgin Islands Housing Authority, is being reconstructed. New wind retrofitted roofs, windows, and doors will mitigate damage from future storms. This project aims to ensure these buildings can withstand winds up to 168 miles per hour, as needed in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
• Support for Individuals and Businesses: Through various assistance programs, FEMA has provided financial aid and support to individuals and businesses, aiding in their recovery and rebuilding efforts. FEMA’s Public Assistance team secured funding for several electrical distribution hardening projects throughout the territory as well as projects to replace the above ground electrical systems with underground transmission and distribution in the same areas. These repairs will make the electrical transmission and distribution system more resilient, less susceptible to damage from natural disasters, and allow power to be restored at a significantly faster rate.
• Investment in Resilience: FEMA’s Interagency Recovery Coordination, in partnership with federal agencies, supports the U.S. Virgin Islands’ recovery efforts through collaborations like the Island Food Systems Summit held from February 19 to 21. The summit aimed to enhance the local food system by gathering expertise, sharing strategies, and fostering partnerships among government agencies, nonprofits, farmers, and businesses. The event focused on the theme "Relationships, Resources, and Resilience," emphasizing the importance of stakeholder relationships, natural resource management, and community resilience.
• Continuous Support: Since 2019, FEMA’s Virgin Islands Caribbean Area Office, has been dedicated to strengthening the USVI's preparedness for emergencies and disasters. The VI CAO continues to focus on working with the V.I. Territorial Emergency Management Agency to build the territory’s capacity to strengthen its preparedness, response and initial recovery resources to bolster resilience.

The VI CAO has supported the territory during various crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, managing sargassum at St. Croix’s desalination plant in 2022, and addressing lead and copper concerns in St. Croix’s water system in 2023.

One notable achievement is the USVI Readiness Initiative, which involves federal and territorial agencies working together to improve disaster preparedness and response. Teamwork between multiple federal and territorial agencies has strengthened planning for response focus areas such as temporary emergency power and commodity distribution to ensure the territory’s critical services stabilize faster after disasters. The 2024 Readiness Initiative’s paramount event – the Capstone -- will feature workshops and exercises focused on preparedness, disaster response and initial recovery in May, in advance of hurricane season.

As FEMA celebrates 45 years of service, it reaffirms its commitment to its mission of supporting communities as well as ensuring their safety and well-being. The agency looks forward to continuing its partnership with the U.S. Virgin Islands and standing together during crises.

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.

gina.callaghan Mon, 04/01/2024 - 14:52

West Virginians: Just One Day Left to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The registration deadline for residents of Boone, Calhoun, Clay, Harrison and Kanawha counties to apply for FEMA disaster assistance for the Aug. 28-30, 2023, severe storms and flooding is one day away.

The deadline to register is tomorrow, MONDAY, APRIL 1, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. 

Survivors can register with the Federal Emergency Management Agency for disaster assistance by using any of the following methods:

• Get the help you need to apply, check on your application, or ask questions with a phone call to 800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone line operates from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.
• Use the FEMA mobile app: https://www.fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/mobile-products
• You can also register with FEMA online at DisasterAssistance.gov through Monday, April 1, 2024.
• As long as you are registered by Monday, April 1, 2024, you can continue to work with FEMA and the Small Business Administration (SBA) to share additional documents, submit appeals, and check on the status of your application after the April 1 deadline – BUT YOU MUST REGISTER FIRST.

FEMA may refer you to the SBA for a long-term, low-interest disaster loan. SBA disaster loans are the largest source of federal disaster recovery funds for survivors. SBA provides these disaster loans to businesses, private nonprofits, homeowners and renters to help them recover. If you are referred to SBA, you are not required to take out a loan, but if you don’t fill out the application by April 1, you may not be eligible for certain FEMA grants. 

For more information about SBA loans, call SBA’s Disaster Assistance Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955, email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov or visit http://www.sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also apply online via SBA’s secure website at http://www.sba.gov/disaster. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

Those who have experienced damage from the storms may be eligible for FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program.  This may cover expenses for home repairs, replacement of damaged personal property, repair or replacement of furnaces, private wells, roads and bridges, and other disaster-related needs, such as medical, dental or transportation costs not covered by insurance or other programs.

FEMA assistance for homeowners and renters may include grants for rent and home repair to their primary residence, as well as other serious disaster-related needs.

FEMA assistance is not dependent on income. The determination on the amount of disaster assistance an eligible applicant receives is based on disaster-related damage incurred as a direct result of the Aug. 28-30, 2023, storms and flooding and the amount of their insurance settlement, if any.

Disaster assistance for essential home repairs, replacement of personal property or for other serious needs does not count as taxable income. West Virginians affected by the severe storms and flooding who receive federal assistance will not lose Social Security or Medicare benefits, will not pay additional taxes, or give up income-based benefit programs.

For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to https://youtu.be/8-vWgNL1Crc?si=vTqhSV5xFqG66cVF

For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4756 and www.facebook.com/FEMA. 

tiana.suber Sat, 03/30/2024 - 17:04

The SBA Application Is an Important Part of the FEMA Disaster Assistance Process

San Diego, Calif. — Survivors of the Jan. 21-23, 2024, San Diego severe storm and flooding who apply for disaster assistance from FEMA may be referred to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) with information on how to apply for a long-term, low-interest disaster loan. It’s important to submit the loan application as soon as possible.

If your application is approved, you are not obligated to accept an SBA loan; however, failure to apply for the loan may disqualify you from other possible FEMA assistance. SBA disaster loans are the largest source of federal recovery funds for disaster survivors. SBA offers long-term, low interest disaster loans to homeowners and renters, businesses of all sizes, and private nonprofit organizations. SBA disaster loans cover losses not fully compensated by insurance or other resources.

You should not wait for an insurance settlement before submitting an SBA loan application. You may discover you were under-insured for the policy deductible or labor and materials required to repair or replace your home.

You can apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) on the secure SBA website at Disaster assistance | U.S. Small Business Administration (sba.gov). Disaster loan information can also be obtained by calling the SBA Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 (if you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services) or by sending an email to DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov.

Disaster loans up to $500,000 are available to homeowners to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners and renters are eligible for up to $100,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property, including personal vehicles.

Businesses of any size and private nonprofit organizations may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets. These loans cover losses that are not fully covered by insurance or other recoveries.

For small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture, and most private, nonprofit organizations of any size, SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. Economic Injury Disaster Loan assistance is available regardless of whether the business suffered any property damage.

Interest rates can be as low as 4 percent for businesses, 3.25 percent for private nonprofit organizations and 2.68 percent for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Loan amounts and terms are set by SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition.

The deadline to apply for property damage is April 19, 2024. The deadline to apply for economic injury is Nov. 19, 2024.
For an American Sign Language video, select this link Reasons to Apply for an SBA Loan.

For the latest FEMA information on the Jan. 21-23, 2024, San Diego County severe storms and flooding, visit fema.gov/disaster/4758.

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.

All FEMA disaster assistance will be provided without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, sex (including sexual harassment), sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, limited English proficiency, or economic status.

If you believe your civil rights are being violated, you can call the Civil Rights Resource line at 833-285-7448 (TTY 800-462-7585). Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish).

camille.schuetze Fri, 03/29/2024 - 23:23

Two Disaster Recovery Centers Set to Open April 1; Two Others to Close March 30

LANSING, Mich. – Two more Disaster Recovery Centers are scheduled to open at 1 p.m., Monday, April 1, in 

Ingham and Wayne (Detroit) counties to help residents in Eaton, Ingham, Ionia, Kent, Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland and Wayne counties continue their recovery after the Aug. 24-26, 2023, severe storms, tornadoes and flooding.

The deadline to apply for assistance is Wednesday, May 8, 2024.

The two recovery centers opening at 1 p.m., April 1, are at these locations:

Ingham County:

Northeast Ingham Emergency Services Authority

1296 W. Grand River Ave.

Williamston, MI 48895

Wayne (Detroit) County: 

Samaritan Center

5555 Conner St. 

Detroit, MI 48213

This center will be closed Wednesday, April 3. It will reopen at 1 p.m., Thursday, April 4.

Two recovery centers in Kent and Wayne (South East) counties will close permanently at 6:30 p.m., Saturday, March 30. 

The centers closing March 30 are at these locations:

Kent County:

Henze Community Center 

in the Alpine Twp. Fire Station #1

1100 Henze St. NW 

Comstock Park, MI 49321

Wayne (Southeast) County:

Gibraltar City Hall​

29450 Munro St.

Gibraltar, MI 48173

To find locations of all open recovery centers, visit FEMA.gov/DRC. You may visit any center for assistance.

Effective Monday, April 1, regular operating hours for the recovery centers are 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday to Saturday, except for the Wayne County (South East) center in Taylor, which closes at 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday. All centers are closed Sundays. 

You don’t need to visit a recovery center to apply for FEMA assistance or to check on the status of your application. The easiest way to reach FEMA is to call the toll-free Helpline at 800-621-3362. Specialists are available 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. to help you apply, answer your questions and provide referrals to resources. Language translation is available. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply. You also may go online to DisasterAssistance.gov or download the FEMA App.

For more information about the disaster recovery operation in Michigan, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4757.

kirsten.chambers Fri, 03/29/2024 - 18:24

SBA Low-Interest Disaster Loans Critical Part of Flood Recovery

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) officials are urging disaster relief applicants to complete and return the loan application forms from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).

Completing the loan application is a critical part of the disaster assistance process. It can keep the door open to all federal assistance, including possible additional grants, from FEMA. 

Assistance from FEMA may not cover all damage or property loss. The SBA loan application, however, may make FEMA assistance available to replace essential household items, replace or repair a damaged vehicle, or pay storage costs. It is critical that the SBA loan application be completed and returned before further FEMA assistance may be considered. 

Many West Virginians who register for disaster assistance through FEMA may receive an automated call from SBA with information on how to complete the loan application process. Completing and submitting the SBA loan application is a required step in obtaining some forms of disaster assistance. Survivors are not required to accept the loan if approved through SBA but they should apply to ensure all available federal funds are explored, etc.

SBA provides low-interest loans to businesses of all sizes (including landlords) and to homeowners, renters and eligible private nonprofit organizations that sustained disaster damage or losses during the severe storms and floods of Aug. 28-30, 2023. There is no cost to apply for a loan. 

Storm-impacted homeowners, renters and businesses in Boone, Calhoun, Clay, Harrison and Kanawha counties should apply by April 1, 2024.

SBA has staff at all state and FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) to assist businesses, homeowners and renters in completing their loan applications. Additionally, SBA Business Recovery Centers (BRCs) are now up and running to help businesses get back on their feet from damage they sustained during the storms. The BRCs in Clay, Harrison and Kanawha counties are a resource where businesses and residents can meet face-to-face with SBA representatives through Friday, March 29, to learn how a low-interest disaster loan can help them recover. The centers are located at:

1. Clay County Disaster Recovery Center

223 Main Street Clay, WV 25043

Hours of operation:

Friday, March 29, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Closing permanently at 5 p.m., Friday, March 29, 2024

 

1. Harrison County Disaster Recovery Center

Harrison County Courthouse

301 W. Main Street, Clarksburg, WV 26301

Hours of operation:

Friday, March 29, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Closing permanently at 5 p.m., Friday, March 29, 2024

 

1. Kanawha County Disaster Recovery Center (Belle)

Belle Town Hall

1100 E. Dupont Ave. Belle, WV 25015

Hours of operation:

Friday, March 29, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Closing permanently at 5 p.m., Friday, March 29, 2024

 

1. Kanawha County Disaster Recovery Center (Penn VA)

Penn VA Coal Carbon Center

13905 MacCorkle Ave, Charleston, WV 25301

Hours of operation:

Friday, March 29, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Closing permanently at 5 p.m., Friday, March 29, 2024

For more information about SBA loans, visit a Disaster Recovery Center through Friday, March 29, or call SBA’s Disaster Assistance Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955, email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov or visit http://www.sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also apply online via SBA’s secure website at http://www.sba.gov/disaster or in person at the nearest Disaster Recovery Center. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

For video on the SBA loans and how to apply for assistance go to https://youtu.be/UFFISn1D4E8?si=VJ8t6LlFWATurvs7

For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4756 and www.facebook.com/FEMA. 

tiana.suber Fri, 03/29/2024 - 16:33

Mora Claims Office to Open Expanded Facility for Those Affected by Fire, Flood

SANTA FE, N.M. — The FEMA Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office in Mora is growing. The new facility with expanded operations will open to the public Monday, April 1. 

The new space consists of two accessible buildings and a parking lot, all located behind the Mora County Courthouse, 1 Courthouse Dr., Mora, NM.

“We’re excited to finally see the expansion of the Mora HPCC Claims Office,” said Mora County Commissioner Veronica Serna. “With the increased filing of fire/flood claims, the desperately needed extra space and additional claims staff are greatly appreciated.”

Those affected by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire and subsequent flooding can visit the Claims Office to speak with Navigators and Claims Reviewers, pick up or submit Notices of Loss, Proofs of Loss, and other forms, ask about the claims process, or make an appointment to meet with staff.

Mora Claims Office Hours:

Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday — 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Tuesday — 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Saturday — 9 a.m. to Noon

Anyone impacted by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire and subsequent flooding is welcome to visit any one of our three Claims Offices. Visit fema.gov/disaster/current/hermits-peak/contact-us for locations and hours. The Claims Office Helpline is staffed Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call 505-995-7133 for answers and solutions to your questions. Spanish-speaking operators are available.

For information and updates regarding the Claims Office, visit the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office website at fema.gov/hermits-peak. For information in Spanish, visit fema.gov/es/hermits-peak. Follow our Facebook page at facebook.com/HermitsPeakCalfCanyonClaimsOffice/ and turn on “Notifications” to stay current about the claims process, important deadlines, and other program announcements.

erika.suzuki Fri, 03/29/2024 - 16:26